Communication

By Rose Marie Filicetti

Ideas for improving communications between the schools and home, and between the elementary and high school districts

Effective communication is regular, clear, and two-way. Parents should expect regular, periodic communication from their child's Teacher, Principal, and Superintendent, in multiple (bilingual) forms such as Newsletters, Homework Folders, and Report Cards. Introductions should precede any Personnel change and detailed explanations should precede any Program change.

Informal two-way communications such as Principal coffees, parent conferences, and school-wide events can clarify expectations. Surveys and parents who serve on Advisory Committees are effective communicators and change-agents. "De-mystifying" high school for students and parents should begin early with the regular exchange of information and participation between students, parents and teachers of both districts.